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Rays Wouldn't Have Survived World Series Game 4 Without Chandler Simpson
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- Rays Wouldn't Have Survived World Series Game 4 Without Chandler Simpson
(USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect)
The Tampa Bay Rays needed several players to step up in Game 4 of the World Series against the Milwaukee Brewers. And while Ben Williamson delivered the game-winning hit in the 12th inning, Chandler Simpson continued to show why he has become one of Tampa Bay's most important players throughout the series.
Simpson collected three hits in Tuesday's 4-3 victory, helping the Rays avoid elimination and extend their season for at least another game.
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And considering how much Tampa Bay's offense has struggled against Milwaukee, Simpson's ability to consistently put the ball in play has become increasingly important.
He's one of the most underrated players on the roster due to his lack of power, but his impact on games all season has been huge for Kevin Cash and the Rays.
The speedy outfielder got things started in the second inning when he delivered an RBI double against Brewers starter Dustin May, giving Tampa Bay an early 1-0 advantage.
However, his biggest contribution came in the bottom of the 12th inning.
With the Rays trailing 3-2 entering the inning, Tampa Bay managed to tie the contest following an RBI single from Jonny DeLuca.
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That brought Simpson to the plate with an opportunity to keep the rally going.
Initially, the plan was for Simpson to lay down a bunt. Unfortunately, he couldn't execute on his first two attempts, putting himself in a difficult situation with two strikes.
However, Simpson adjusted his approach and he delivered a single that loaded the bases, setting up Williamson's walk-off RBI single.
Following the contest, he explained his approach during the important at-bat.
"Wasn't able to get it down the first two pitches, but I knew I had to battle with two strikes, trying to help my team," Simpson said.
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And while the hit might get overlooked because of Williamson's game-winning single, Tampa Bay doesn't get that opportunity without Simpson.
His contributions haven't been limited to offense, either.
Simpson also made several important defensive plays Tuesday, helping Tampa Bay prevent Milwaukee from creating additional scoring opportunities.
While Tampa Bay's power hitters haven't consistently delivered, Simpson has continued finding ways to contribute through contact, speed, and defense. The Rays have shown they can win baseball games in many different ways this season, and Simpson is a big reason why.
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And following Tuesday's victory, Simpson made it clear that the Rays aren't ready for their season to end.
"We're going to keep fighting to the end, the last inning, the last out, the last player, the last pitch," Simpson said.
Tampa Bay still trails Milwaukee 3-1 in the World Series. However, if the Rays hope to continue their comeback, they'll need Simpson and the rest of the Rays batting order to keep delivering.
